Tatum LM

Tatum turned 2 years old on January 3, 2018. He had a rough start in life. There were complications at birth where his collarbone was broken and the nerves in his spinal cord were severed. He was diagnosed with Erb’s Palsy, a condition characterized by weakness or paralysis of the arm. Also known as brachial plexus birth palsy, Erb’s palsy often occurs during an abnormal or difficult childbirth.

He was in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for 7 days. He’s had Botox injections to help loosen the muscles in his right armpit and chest, to help get his right bicep to work. No local doctors had seen an injury quite like Tatum’s.

He’s had two surgeries since he was born. He can’t use his right hand and arm very much and he has no feeling in his right hand at all. He will need another surgery soon where they will transfer a nerve from his rib area into his right arm. The family has to make many trips to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland for his care.

Tatum had some developmental delays and didn’t walk until he was 1 ½ years old. He does speech and occupational therapy regularly. He’s battled asthma and uses a breathing machine when necessary.

Tatum was adopted by Samantha and Susan soon after he was born, and they call him their miracle baby. Although he had a tough start, he doesn’t let much slow him down! He’s an active little boy with a lot of personality.

In spite of so many challenges from the very beginning, Tatum is a typical little boy... curious, cheerful, and full of energy. He likes playing with his toys and being read to. He loves playing with their family pets, and being outdoors makes him very happy.

Sparrow Cash raised for Tatum will help with ongoing medical expenses, and everyday living expenses. Students at Crook County Middle School will “earn” Sparrow Cash by completing a minimum of 256 hours of sponsored community service.